Do you know two of my favorite desserts? Caramel and snowball cookies—also known as Mexican wedding cakes. When I discovered a caramel surprise cookie recipe featuring LANCASTER Soft Crèmes, I couldn’t wait to try it. I usually reserve snowball cookies for the holidays, but these soft caramels, inspired by classic recipes, make a perfect baking twist any time of year. The caramel center adds a gooey surprise inside the delicate, nut-studded cookie for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 20 LANCASTER Caramel Soft Cremes, unwrapped
- Additional powdered sugar for rolling
- In a stand mixer or with an electric hand mixer, cream the butter, powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth and well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, pecans and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until just combined. Refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes, or until firm enough to handle.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Remove the wrappers from the caramels and set the candies aside.
- Divide the chilled dough into 20 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it slightly. Place one caramel in the center and fold the dough fully around the caramel, sealing it so the candy is completely enclosed. Place the filled dough balls onto the prepared cookie sheet, spaced about 1–2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cookies are set but not browned. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet briefly, then transfer to a wire rack. While still slightly warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. Once completely cool, store the cookies in a tightly covered container. For an extra snowy appearance, roll again in powdered sugar just before serving.
This recipe pairs the classic tender crumb of snowball cookies with a soft caramel center for a comforting, indulgent bite. The contrast between the melt-in-your-mouth cookie and the chewy caramel creates a memorable dessert that’s perfect for gatherings, holiday trays, or an anytime sweet treat.
Tips for Perfect Caramel Surprise Cookies
– Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough makes it much easier to shape around the caramels and helps prevent the candy from melting during baking. If your kitchen is warm, extended chilling (up to 60 minutes) can help.
– Seal the edges well: When enclosing the caramel, press the dough seams together to fully cover the candy. If a caramel leaks during baking it can cause spreading or sticking to the pan.
– Watch the bake time: These cookies should set without browning. Overbaking will dry them out and may alter the texture of the caramel center.
Variations and Serving Ideas
– Nut options: Swap pecans for finely chopped walnuts or almonds to change the flavor profile.
– Flavor twists: Add a pinch of cinnamon or substitute half a teaspoon of almond extract for a different aroma.
– Presentation: Dust generously with powdered sugar for a classic look, or press a light sprinkle of sea salt on top of each cookie after baking for a sweet-and-salty contrast.
Storage
Store cooled cookies in a single layer or separated by parchment in a tightly sealed container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. If you prefer the caramel to stay softer, store them at room temperature rather than refrigerating; refrigeration can firm the caramel and change the texture.
Whether you call them snowball cookies, Mexican wedding cakes, or simply caramel surprise cookies, these treats bring together buttery dough, crunchy nuts and a sweet caramel center to create a dessert that delights both kids and adults. Enjoy baking and sharing them with friends and family.